Multitalented singer, songwriter, and producer Austin Brown recently released his latest single, “California, " through his band BLVK CVSTLE. The funk-bending track serves as a lyrical ode to the Golden State, which shaped Brown’s upbringing and experiences as an artist.

Alongside his musical endeavors, Brown's commitment to community-building shines through his innovative initiatives, such as the BLVK Ocean Beach parties. For Brown, "California'' is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt homage to the place that has nurtured his dreams and ambitions. 

"’California’ really represents a love letter, not only to the state but also to the city of Los Angeles," Brown explained to BET.com. "All my years of grind and all my friendships that I've cultivated throughout the years doing music have led me on a journey. And I know it wouldn't have happened if I didn't live here, if I didn't grow up here."

The video even features clips of the BLVK Ocean parties, which he’s used alongside other collaborators to connect with communities. These gatherings, co-founded with Yonas Michael (of legendary hip-hop duo U-N-I with Yannick "Thurz" Koffi), have become a staple of the California summer scene. Central to Brown's ethos is the idea of community and unity. 

Brown emphasizes that his music and events like the BLVK Ocean parties are designed to unite people, asserting that unity and community are powerful forces capable of moving mountains. His vision extends beyond music, aiming to create spaces where people can come together, share experiences, and build connections, showcasing what California is all about and fostering a sense of belonging and support.

"I love them because it gets people out of their element and you just connect in a different way,” Brown explained. “The ocean is God’s original Picasso. This is our third year doing it, and it’s amazing how much it’s grown. I want to start taking it internationally, maybe to places like Abu Dhabi or Jamaica."

These moments feel full circle for Brown, who recalls two of his best summers. One includes him organizing the Canyon Sessions festival with friends in the canyons of the Los Angeles neighborhood of Sherman Oaks. Initially, the gatherings attracted around 35 people, but by the end of the summers in 2017, 2018, and 2019, the events grew to host 400 attendees, showcasing the community's support and enthusiasm.

Brown also fondly remembers summers spent at the beach with his Aunt Janet Jackson (yes, THAT Janet), who would pick him and his cousins up in her stick-shift Land Rover. They would spend the day playing at the beach, ensuring those summers were filled with fun and freedom. As the cool aunt, Janet was more lenient, creating cherished memories of carefree days and special bonds.

“At the time, she’s in her 20s and the closest to me in age brackets from my other aunts and uncles,” Brown said. “She definitely was the cool aunt who more lenient than my mother at times. She allowed us to watch Friday and watch all the movies with cursing. I could talk to her about anything. It was super chill.” 

Brown’s deep connection to California is evident in his recollections of growing up in the state, watching people, including his father, hustle to make something of themselves while making history.

"My father started the first Black-owned driving school in Southern California, ACE Driving School,” said Brown. He worked tirelessly, and I witnessed that grind firsthand.” 

In addition to his live performances, Brown is gearing up to release more music. His next single, "Knock Me Down," is set to drop soon, accompanied by a video shot in London. That single and “California,” will be featured on his upcoming album, The Festival, which is set for an October release. He hints at upcoming tour dates and collaborations for the album, though specifics remain under wraps.

"There’s going to be some tour dates with an artist coming up soon. I can’t reveal too much yet, but it’s going to be exciting," Brown teases. “You’re going to get to know me, my father’s side of the family, and where I come from. It’s a coming-of-age project that brings together all my experiences on this album.”

That hustle continues outside of Brown’s solo work as he writes and produces for other artists. This year, he worked on Lucky Daye’s Algorithm album and is set to receive credits to Tank & The Bangas' follow-up to their 2022 Grammy-nominated album Red Balloon, as well as do some spot tour dates with them. 

“Since the Red Balloon album they've been family,” said Brown. “We’ve been playing together back and forth and it’s been an incredible journey.” 

As Brown reflects on his journey, he views this career phase as a triumph. Through his music and community initiatives, he continues to inspire and connect with people, embodying the spirit of unity and resilience. 

"We’re in triumph. Just being able to talk about my journey and share my experiences is a victory for me," Brown said.